Posted on August 23, 2021 at 10:33 AM by Emily Saveraid
Sherie Van Berkum has positively and generously contributed to the Buena Vista County 4-H program in numerous capacities over the past 17 years. She spent 12 years as an involved and supportive 4-H mom, 10 years as a vibrant club leader to the Maple Valley Motivators and Maple Valley Agriculturists, and 6 years and counting as a 4-H static exhibit judge.
As a judge, she has served eight counties in a variety of project areas. Sherie helped guide and raise young 4-H members to become contributing adult leaders. Numerous 4-H alumni, including Sherie's children Jayden and Katie, have volunteered their time to support the Buena Vista County 4-H program because of her influence. Each year she held one-on-one sessions with family members in preparation for the Buena Vista County Fair. This intentional time helped youth feel confident and prepared in their project exhibits, while providing a welcoming atmosphere for new families to ask questions.
Sherie demonstrated community development through her work with her club's annual pumpkin patch. The club planned for, planted, weeded, promoted, and hosted school groups and community members to enjoy hayrides, education, and other fall fun at the pumpkin patch! Sherie helped facilitate the amiable merger of two community 4-H clubs. She made all members feel welcome in the new club environment. Sherie also served as a contributing member of the larger team of 4-H leaders who promoted the benefits of 4-H in Buena Vista County through events, individual interactions, and school presentations. When Sherie was nominated for the 4-H Hall of Fame, she shared the following comment, "I feel so blessed to pass on what I have learned from other 4-H mentors to 4-H youth, families and our larger community."
Categories: 2021, Buena Vista
